Job Description

About us

MKO is Ireland’s largest Ecology and Environmental consultancy.

Our team of 200+ experienced professionals work across the ecology, planning, environmental, and related fields. We deliver challenging and complex projects for our clients and have an unrivalled track record of success. We add real value to our client’s projects through our multi-disciplinary expertise and a broad range of nationwide experience.

Our success and growth rests entirely on the knowledge, skills, ambition and integrity of our people, and we value these qualities most highly. We are forward-thinking and work with a can-do attitude, which nurtures people, ideas and opportunities to help maximise potential.

Through our work, we aim to leave a legacy we can all be proud of.

We are recruiting a Project Ecologist to join our expanding Ecology team of over 90 Ecologists delivering projects nationwide. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to a diverse portfolio of projects across Ireland, spanning the renewable energy, transport, water and infrastructure sectors, as well as a range of private sector developments.

You will apply the skills developed through formal education, field experience and previous roles, while continuing to grow professionally within a supportive, multidisciplinary environment.

What you’ll bring to the role:
As a Project Ecologist, you will play a key role in the planning and delivery of ecology projects, including:

• Scoping, planning and undertaking ecological surveys in the terrestrial, freshwater or marine environments.
• Managing ecology projects from inception to completion

• Liaising with clients, project stakeholders and multidisciplinary project teams
• Preparing written ecological reports, impact assessments, management plans, etc, as the output of field survey efforts, including mapping, data collation, etc.

• Preparing the scope of work and fee proposal documents for new projects.
• Prepare high‑quality report outputs within set deadlines.
• Mentoring and supporting junior members of the Ecology team
• Managing project budgets to ensure the scope of work is completed in the allocated time.
• Prioritising assigned workload while balancing client expectations, available resources and project deadlines.

What we’re looking for in you:

• A third-level qualification in ecology, botany, natural sciences, or other related fields that give the candidate the necessary skills to fulfil the role.
• A minimum of 4+ years of post-graduate experience in fulfilling similar functions, ideally in a similar consultancy role.
• A broad range of ecological survey and reporting experience.
• Excellent report writing skills and proven project management abilities.
• An excellent understanding of the EU Habitats and EIA Directives in so far as they relate to project-based ecological impact assessments being undertaken by an ecological consultancy.
• Demonstrated people management and/or mentoring capability.
• Full driving licence.

Desirable

• Associate or Full Member of CIEEM (other a relevant professional body) or working towards the same.

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, recognising the contribution you will make. At MKO, your professional development is important to us, with ongoing opportunities for growth, training and leadership development. MKO offers a culture that supports you.

We actively embrace diversity and inclusion as fundamental elements of our workplace culture. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, recognising that a diverse team fosters innovation, creativity, and a more dynamic work environment. We promote a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique strengths.

Candidates interested in the available position should apply by emailing an up-to-date Curriculum Vitae and cover letter.